The Peace Corps has cancelled its January 2012 volunteer training classes for El Salvador and Guatemala. Due to ongoing security concerns, the agency is enhancing operational support to currently serving volunteers in these countries. All currently serving volunteers in El Salvador and Guatemala are safe and accounted for. The Peace Corps will continue to closely monitor and assess the safety and security climate and enhance volunteer support in these countries.

WASHINGTON, D.C., December 21, 2011 – The Peace Corps has cancelled its January 2012 volunteer training classes for El Salvador and Guatemala. Due to ongoing security concerns, the agency is enhancing operational support to currently serving volunteers in these countries.

All currently serving volunteers in El Salvador and Guatemala are safe and accounted for. The Peace Corps will continue to closely monitor and assess the safety and security climate and enhance volunteer support in these countries.

The Peace Corps operated in El Salvador between 1962 and 1979, and returned in 1993. Over 2,000 Americans have served in El Salvador since the program was established, working with communities on projects focused on community, economic, and youth development. There are 113 volunteers currently serving in El Salvador.

The Peace Corps has operated in Guatemala since 1963. Over 4,800 Americans have served in Guatemala since the program was established, working with communities on projects focused on health, youth development, environment and agriculture. There are 222 volunteers currently serving in Guatemala.

Families with questions or concerns may contact the Peace Corps' Counseling and Outreach unit, which maintains a 24-hour, 7 days a week duty system. The telephone number during standard office hours is (800) 424-8580, extension 1470.

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Story Source: Peace Corps Press Release

This story has been posted in the following forums: : Headlines; COS - Guatemala; COS - El Salvador; Safety

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